Varlamov and Dovgan Not Coming To Rookie Camp

I just received word that defenseman Viktor Dovgan has decided not to come over for rookie camp, and will instead remain in Russia, where his Super League season has already started. Goaltender Simeon Varlamov also has decided to stay in Russia and join his Super League team.

I'm told that Dovgan's decision came as a bit of suprise to the Caps. Varlamov wasn't so much of a surprise

I don't expect anything good out if Dovgan. If there's a trade option (probably not), just get rid of him. He'll be another Chistov, or Taratukhin. etc.

It just shows that Alex Ovechkin is a complete exception among Russians. His interest in improving his English skills, his work ethic, even his physical style of play is an exception to any other Russian. The only other Russian guy that I can name similar to him was Igor Larionov.

Guys! All I'm asking is, "why is it a surprise?" If the guy has a wife and newborn in Russia, fine! Hopefully, GMGM would know about this? If there are issues with the player, shouldn't the manager know about the issues? Don't they have a contract between the player and the organization? Wouldn't you expect that potential issues would be raised during negotiations and that the alternatives would be agreed to in advance? That's what a contract is supposed to do. Not just set the amount of money you'll get. There should be no surprise announcements of players NOT showing up to someplace expected. Either the player is running against the contract, or GMGM didn't think through. My bet is on the latter.

>>>"Wouldn't you expect that potential Don't they have a contract between the player and the organization? Wouldn't issues would be raised during negotiations and that the alternatives would be agreed to in advance? That's what a contract is supposed to do. "

Until an IIHF transfer agreement is signed with the Russian leagues, a North American contract is not binding.

Dvogan came over to North America last year without a contract and played in this country. The Caps didn't sign him to a deal until halfway through the year. He gave every indication he was going to be back in the States this season, which is why he played at the prospect camp this past July. He's only recently changed his mind, and lambasting the organization for that is beyond reason.